Gorčević in Nicosia: 2026 a Decisive Year for Montenegro

Informal Meeting of Ministers for European Affairs

Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević participated in the informal meeting of Ministers for European Affairs (GAC), held in Cyprus as part of that country’s presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Gorčević took part in sessions dedicated to the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034 and EU enlargement.

Addressing the participants of the meeting, the Minister emphasized that 2026 will be a decisive year for Montenegro, as the country intends to complete the negotiation process by the end of the year.

“Montenegro has come an extraordinary way, and this goal seemed unimaginable just a few years ago. Today, Montenegro represents a convincing example of how European reforms can transform society, even in complex circumstances and ongoing socioeconomic challenges in the Western Balkans. This transformation is visible in institutions, public administration, economic governance, and in the everyday expectations of our citizens,” said Gorčević.

She stressed that Montenegro remains firmly committed to implementing transformative reforms and achieving full membership status by 2028, in line with the merit-based principle.

“The recent decision of the European Union to establish an ad hoc working group for drafting Montenegro’s Accession Treaty is not only a historic milestone for our country, but also a strong impulse at the very heart of the European Union and its enlargement policy. We are extremely grateful to the Cypriot presidency for recognizing our efforts and enabling our dedicated work to receive a visible and tangible result,” said Gorčević.

The Minister emphasized that, in the current complex geopolitical circumstances, the European Union must demonstrate that it is capable of acting strategically, defending its values, and strengthening its position in the world.

“Enlargement policy is one of the EU’s most powerful instruments. Both theoretically and practically, the success of European integration is a direct indicator of the Union’s geopolitical relevance. Therefore, enlargement is not merely a technical process, but a strategic choice about the future of Europe,” said Gorčević.

She pointed to the importance of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, accompanied by ambitious reform agendas, as well as participation in initiatives that bring practical benefits to everyday life, such as SEPA and the abolition of roaming charges, which will produce visible benefits for citizens and businesses.

“This year, as our country celebrates the 20th anniversary of the restoration of its independence, we are honoured to host the EU–Western Balkans Summit. This June, we will welcome leaders of the EU and member states, which will provide us with an opportunity to present the achievements Montenegro has made on its European path,” concluded Gorčević.

The Ministers for European Affairs of the EU member states stressed that the European Union is facing the most demanding security and geopolitical context in recent decades and that, under such circumstances, enlargement is no longer merely a political choice but a strategic investment in the peace, stability, and security of the entire European continent.

They concluded that enlargement strengthens the Union’s security, economic resilience, and global role when it is built on strong institutions and shared standards and values.